Every so often my face feels less soft than I would like. And sometimes I want a little extra glow. This is when a gentle mask-scrub comes in handy. Instead of turning to a store bought product, I like a simple DIY mixture that is is gentle on sensitive skin. Which I have!
With a little raw honey, some aloe vera gel from my aloe plant and a little sugar, I make a gentle, non toxic scrub. You only need a little because it goes a long way! (Disclaimer, since first writing this, I have become vegan and no longer like to use honey but nevertheless the benefits still hold true).
A quick review of the THREE ingredients:
Raw/Unpasteurized Honey is antibacterial and anti-fungal. It’s also a natural moisturizer. TIP : Avoid the watered down, sugary syrup that unfortunately is frequently found in main stream supermarkets. It’s less expensive for a reason. If you can go to a local bee-keeper who you know uses ethical and sustainable practices, all the better! Otherwise I've found some real honey at farmer's markets and even in certain grocery stores that carry less processed products.
Aloe Vera Gel is an incredible substance for your skin. Although there is no conclusive proof of its effect when applied topically, there is plenty of anecdotal evidence that it has healing properties. It is also soothing and moisturizing.
White or Brown Organic Sugar acts as a very gentle scrub. Tip: Use organic sugar to avoid the toxins sprayed on conventional sugar crops.
This mixture is so simple and easy you can make small batches as needed and not have to worry about storage or shelf-life.
Directions for One treatment
Lay an aloe leaf flat on a dish. Take a knife and gently cut the tips of the leaf as well as the spine lengthwise for two strips. If you buy a leaf from the supermarket, they are usually quite big. You will only need a three inch section at most. Wash and only cut what you need. Store the rest in the refrigerator. Depending on the amount of gel you scrape from the aloe leaf, adjust the honey and sugar as necessary.
With a spoon, scrape the aloe gel from the leaf into the dish (try to get about 1 teaspoon).
Add 1 teaspoon of Raw Honey.
Add 1 to 1.5 teaspoon organic sugar.
Mix all ingredients together. If too runny, add a little more sugar for a bit more scrubbing action. If too stiff add a bit more honey and aloe vera gel. A little at a time until desired consistency. It should be easily spreadable on your face.
With clean hands, smooth over your face and neck.
Let the mask sit for 20 minutes to allow your skin to soak in all the beneficial properties.
Using a soft cloth, rub the mask in gentle upward circles for a gentle exfoliating effect.
Finally wash off with warm water.
Pat dry with a soft dry towel.
AAAHHH ... It feels so good!
THINK B.A.R.E., LIVE B.A.R.E.
A Think B.A.R.E. creation. By Carolyn Francesca, Copyright October 2017